Poems, Songs, and Prayers

Many individuals in the aftermath of April 16th expressed their feelings and support through the creative process. Virginia Tech received poems, prayers and eulogies, song lyrics, and music notation. Although the creators did not sign their names, they left their mark on the items with handwritten notes and designs that convey their love, support, and personal expressions of mourning.

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B301_P00526_Poster_Undated.jpg

"We will never forget" poster with pictures of Norris Hall and a black VT ribbon, a poem, and the names of the 32 victims. (P00526, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_P00346_Poem_Undated.pdf

A typewritten poem starting with the line "On just an ordinary day, a weapon drawn and lives forever changed." (P00346, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00129_Poem_2004_04_24.pdf

"Eulogy from our Hokies 32," a typewritten eulogy for the 32 victims, April 24, 2007, by anonymous writer, and "The Mourner's Kaddish" along with the names of the 32 victims. (O00129, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00076_Poem_Undated.pdf

Letter with poem, "Young People in Blacksburg Virginia" from anonymous writer. (O00076, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00038_Poem_Undated.jpg

A poem that says, "I know you're sad and are afraid / because I see your tears. / I'll not be far, I promise that; / and I hope you'll always know / That my spirit will beclose to you, / wherever you may go. / Thank you so for Loving me." (O00038, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00075_Song_Undated.pdf

Handwritten note with song and notation, "Prayer for Today (oboe solo)." (O00075, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00062_Song_Undated.jpg

Handwritten song with notation, "Prayer for Today (oboe solo)." (O00062, Ms2008-020)

Ms2008_020_April162007Archives_B513_F28_O00068_Poem_Undated.jpg

Prayer starting "May there be peace on Earth". The items says this is an "Ancient Indian prayer translated from Sanskrit" with a note for Virginia Tech. (O00068, Ms2008-020)